Ruth May Evans born October 19, 1918 in Indiana passed into eternity on March 16, 2017 at the age of 98 in her home in Laguna Hills, Ca. She was born to Otto and Mabel Breitwieser. Her brothers were Ralph and Mark Breitwieser. Her first marriage to Merrill Bryan resulted in two wonderful daughters—Merrillyn and Joni.

In high school, Ruth graduated as salutatorian of her class. For college, she completed a double major in biology and English and received a RN in five years at Ball State University, Indiana. In her 50s, she returned to graduate school at UCLA earning her Master's degree in Public Health.

She escaped from hard working farm life through educations and when she married Merrill Bryan. They entered military life, full of challenges, adventure and travel. Some of her residences included Indianapolis, Mississippi, Colorado Springs, Long Beach, Japan, Alabama, Florida, Puerto Rico, West Lafayette, IN (where Purdue University is located), San Antonio, TX, and California

Ruth's employment consisted of working in a hospital in Indianapolis when she was first married. While her husband was stationed in Puerto Rico, she was the school nurse where her daughters attended.She taught nurses in Santa Monica before becoming a professor teaching public health at Cal State Northridge and LA City College.

Ruth then met her second husband, and love of her life, Donald Evans. Many times Ruth commented on the wonderful way they traveled the world together. Their life was rich in not only travel but art, music, theater, bridge, gourmet dinner groups, church, and gardening. She successfully forged ahead as a widow for 22 years. During that time, Ruthenjoyed playing in many bridge groups; serving on the board in her community home owners association, continuing to travel; and of course watching "HER"Lakers during their impressive years. Everyone knew her favorite player was Kobe Bryant.

Ruth is survived by daughter Merrillyn Wright, son by marriage Wayne Evans; and daughter Joni Doyle. Ruth and Don enjoyed attending their grandchildren's graduations: Lori Lee, David Thomson, and Crystal Kruse. Ruth was blessed by great grandchildren—Jake Kruse, Maya Lee, Katie Kruse, Layla Lee, and Jonathan Kruse.They changed her name to GG. The grandchildren will remember their fun visits with GG at her home.

Ruth has been welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus. There she dwells in the house of the Lord where joy abounds forevermore.


Please join us in remembering Ruth. Through this site, we invite you to share your thoughts and fond memories with our family.